Items that should never be thrown in your dumpster

As the summer season is in full swing and people tackle their cleaning projects, many are relying on Geaux Throw Waste Management in Acadiana for their dumpster rental requirements. If you find yourself with a substantial amount of trash that requires removal, renting a dumpster is undoubtedly the ideal solution.

However, it’s important to consider a few key factors to ensure a hassle-free experience. Different regions may have specific regulations regarding the types of items permitted and prohibited in dumpsters. Therefore, before renting a dumpster in Acadiana, it’s essential to inquire about any item restrictions from the rental company. A reputable waste management service like Geaux Throw will also assist you in finding suitable disposal options for items that cannot be placed in a roll-off dumpster or your household bin. Meanwhile, here are a few examples to help you kickstart the process.

Promoting responsible trash disposal is crucial for environmental protection. Here are the top 8 items commonly thrown in the trash but should not be placed in dumpsters, along with proper disposal methods:

1. Flammable, toxic, hazardous, or corrosive waste: These items should never go in any waste container, including household garbage bins and rented dumpsters. Proper disposal methods must be followed to prevent harm.
2. Scrap tires: In the United States, it’s important to recycle old tires instead of dumping them in landfills. Look for tire recycling facilities to ensure environmental preservation.
3. Paints, lacquers, and containers: Many contain poisonous chemicals like mercury and lead. While latex paint may have exceptions, it usually requires mixing with substances like cat litter before being disposed of in a garbage can. Aerosol can finishes, paints, and stains are also prohibited.
4. Hazardous oils: Whether from automobiles, industrial equipment, or home-use items like lawn mowers, these oils cannot be simply thrown in the trash. Special disposal methods should be followed to prevent environmental damage.
5. Asbestos: Once widely used in building materials, asbestos is now known to be hazardous. If you suspect your home contains asbestos, consult professional contractors for safe removal.
6. Batteries: All types of batteries are harmful to the environment. Improperly disposing of car batteries, which contain lead-acid, can cause long-term damage. Ensure proper disposal at designated facilities.
7. Petroleum and gasoline: These highly combustible substances are not permitted in landfills or dumpsters. Unusable fuels should be taken to local hazardous waste facilities.
8. Appliances with Freon: While many appliances can be placed in rental dumpsters, refrigerators must have the Freon removed by a professional before disposal. Consider donating old appliances to local organizations like Habitat for Humanity Re-Store for recycling and reuse.
9. Medical Waste: Medical waste, including used needles, syringes, expired medications, and biomedical waste, must not be discarded in regular dumpsters. Improper disposal of medical waste poses significant health risks to waste management personnel and the general public. It’s crucial to follow local guidelines and regulations for the safe disposal of medical waste, which often involves using designated collection sites or contacting specialized medical waste disposal services.

Adhering to dumpster disposal regulations and guidelines benefits waste collectors, dumpster users, and the environment. Let’s all play our part in preserving the environment in Lafayette, Broussard, Carencro, Scott, Youngsville, Opelousas, New Iberia, Abbeville, and the surrounding Acadiana areas! For more information, please contact Geaux Throw Waste Management in Acadiana at (337) 523-9955